Classic Cucumber Detox Water

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📋 The Recipe: Classic Cucumber Detox Water

  • Prep time: 5 minutes

  • Infusion time: 1–4 hours

  • Servings: 4 (approx. 8 oz each)

Ingredients

  • 1 large cucumber (English or Persian preferred for thinner skin)

  • 1/2 gallon (2 liters) of filtered cold water

  • Optional Aromatics: 5–6 fresh mint leaves, 1 sliced lemon, or 1 inch of sliced ginger.

  • Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cucumber: Wash the cucumber thoroughly. You can leave the skin on for extra nutrients or peel it in decorative strips. Slice it into thin rounds.

  2. Combine: Place the cucumber slices (and any optional ingredients) into a large glass pitcher.

  3. Pour: Fill the pitcher with the filtered water.

  4. Infuse: Let the water sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. For a deeper flavor, let it chill for up to 4 hours.

  5. Serve: Pour over ice and enjoy. Refill the water 1–2 times throughout the day using the same cucumbers.

💡 Notes & Pro-Tips

  • Quality Matters: Since the cucumber sits in the water for hours, try to use organic cucumbers to avoid pesticides leaching into your drink.

  • Don’t Over-Soak: Avoid leaving the cucumbers in the water for more than 12 hours, as they can become mushy and the water may develop a slightly bitter taste.

  • Muddle for Intensity: If you’re in a rush, lightly “muddle” (crush) a few cucumber slices at the bottom of the pitcher before adding water to release the juices instantly.

🥗 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 5 kcal

  • Total Fat: 0g

  • Sodium: 2mg

  • Total Carbohydrates: 1g

  • Sugars: 0.5g

  • Vitamin K: 8% DV (Daily Value)

✨ Benefits of Cucumber Water

  • Superior Hydration: Many people find the subtle flavor makes it easier to drink more water throughout the day than plain tap water.

  • Antioxidant Boost: Cucumbers contain flavonoids and tannins that help fight oxidative stress.

  • Skin Health: High in silica and antioxidants, this drink helps maintain a clear, glowing complexion from the inside out.

  • Weight Management: It’s a zero-calorie replacement for sugary sodas or juices, helping you feel full and reducing mindless snacking.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I eat the cucumbers after drinking the water? A: Absolutely! They will be a bit waterlogged and less crunchy, but they still contain fiber and nutrients.

Q: How long does it stay fresh? A: It’s best consumed within 24 hours. If you haven’t finished it by then, strain out the solids and keep the flavored water for another day.

Q: Why does my cucumber water taste bitter? A: This usually happens if the cucumber skin was very thick/waxy or if you left the slices in the water for over 24 hours. Peeling the cucumber first can prevent this.

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